Trey Mancini, the beloved first baseman/outfielder known for his power bat and resilience, is eyeing a return to Major League Baseball in 2025 after a season away. The 32-year-old veteran, who battled through a Stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis in 2020, recently opened up to The Baltimore Banner’s Andy Kostka about his decision to pursue a comeback. After opting out of a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins late last spring, Mancini spent the year at home but revealed that a renewed passion for the game has sparked his desire to make another run in the majors.
“For the first several months, I was at peace with [my decision] and thought I was content with the career I’d put together,” Mancini shared. “But I think, at the same time, I don’t exactly love how things ended in my career, and I really do think if I’m in the right situation, I can still be an impact bat.”
Mancini’s rise as a fan favorite began during his early days with the Baltimore Orioles. A reliable power hitter, Mancini knocked 24 homers in both 2017 and 2018, and by 2019, he posted career highs with 35 home runs and an impressive .291/.364/.535 line. But his momentum was abruptly halted by the cancer diagnosis, forcing him to miss the 2020 season entirely.
Returning to the field in 2021 after being declared cancer-free, Mancini received a hero’s welcome and finished as runner-up in the Home Run Derby. His perseverance and contributions earned him the AL Comeback Player of the Year honor that season, and his journey inspired fans across the league. However, the years that followed saw ups and downs, with a mid-season trade to the Astros in 2022 and a less-than-stellar stint with the Cubs in 2023, which led to his release.
Now, as he turns 33 next March, Mancini is ready to prove he still has something left to offer. “I know saying that means nothing,” he admitted, “and I’d have to go out there and prove it, but I’m fully ready to go do that.”
Despite the mixed results in his last two seasons, Mancini’s previous production and character make him a low-risk option for teams needing depth and experience in the lineup. Clubs seeking right-handed power for a corner outfield, first base, or bench role might see plenty of value in a potential non-roster invite.
